Each 7,500-short-ton (6,800 t) leaf of the bridge floats on a 100-inch (2.5 m) steel barrel in hydraulic oil, situated in center piers at each side of the river.

In 1968 and 1970, a series of bond propositions ("Forward Thrust") were offered to replace the prior bridges, but did not receive the required approval.

The lower bridge was restricted to transit, freight, emergency vehicles, and longshore workers, with limited patrols by police.

Crews then discovered more severe damage to the position sensor and hydraulic seal that control the bridge's movement, prompting a longer closure.

[4] The bridge was closed for four days in October 2023 to repair and reinstall the hydraulic cylinder in the eastern tower, which had been removed in January.